Extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon have long held a place of honor in healthy cooking and home wellness practices. But today, the duo is taking on a new role — as an evening “wellness shot” that's been trending on social media. Instead of adding it to a salad, the concoction is being poured into a cup and sipped as a simple but supposedly powerful nighttime ritual, with claims of benefits ranging from glowing skin to better digestion.
When consumed in the evening, extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice are said to work synergistically to create a gentle antioxidant blend with a gentle cleansing effect. Proponents claim that this combination supports the immune system, promotes collagen production, and helps the body “reboot” overnight.
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Time matters.
The key point is the timing of intake. The acidic mixture is recommended to be taken before bedtime to support digestion, promote regular bowel movements, and improve sleep quality.
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The after-dinner effect
Here's how it supposedly works: The olive oil helps lubricate your intestines, while the lemon juice stimulates the production of gastric juices. Together, they help to facilitate easier digestion and more efficient passage of food, which can reduce evening heaviness and provide a more restful night's sleep. A tablespoon of olive oil with the juice of half a lemon is also believed to support liver function. In wellness communities, the drink is referred to as a drainage, detox, and cleansing agent that can aid the body's natural cleansing processes and relieve occasional constipation.
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Beyond digestion, proponents also point to broader effects: olive oil's anti-inflammatory compounds, along with lemon's plant-based antioxidants and vitamins, have been linked to heart health, joint comfort, and maintaining normal cholesterol levels.
Main claimed benefits:
- digestive support
- help with episodic constipation
- detox support
- supporting normal liver function
- anti-inflammatory effect
- comfort for joints
- maintaining healthy cholesterol levels
- support for the cardiovascular system
- more radiant skin appearance
Why before bed?
Evening is considered the ideal time for this ritual. Some wellness influencers point out that olive oil contains small amounts of compounds related to circadian rhythms, and its soothing and nourishing properties can help you relax. Plus, when digestion is working better, bloating and discomfort at night are reduced, making it easier to fall asleep. Even after a heavy dinner.
Does it really work?
Sounds appealing, but is there any scientific evidence for all of these claims? Some, but it’s limited. Olive oil and lemon juice do have beneficial properties on their own. Studies have consistently linked olive oil to cardiovascular benefits, especially in the context of an overall diet. There is also emerging clinical evidence that extra virgin olive oil may improve bowel movement frequency in people with constipation.
As for lemon juice, it is known that the vitamin C it contains is necessary for collagen synthesis and the normal functioning of the immune system. However, there is little evidence that a small amount of lemon juice at night has a noticeable effect on the skin or immunity. Especially if a person is already getting enough vitamin C during the day.
As for liver “detox,” there's also little scientific evidence. While olive oil does contain a small amount of melatonin, the concentration is too low to have a significant effect on sleep. The same goes for claims about liver cleansing: its primary function is detoxification, and the most effective support is to reduce alcohol consumption, maintain a healthy weight, and eat a balanced diet.
In other words, there is no magic substitute for a healthy lifestyle. The best results are achieved by following a Mediterranean diet, getting enough fiber, and getting regular physical activity.
How to take
However, there is usually no harm in this trend, provided you don't have gastritis, acid reflux, or a sensitive stomach.
Recipe:
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- juice of ½ lemon
Mix and drink in one go right before bed. If the taste seems too strong, you can dilute the mixture with half a glass of water.
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Based on material from: Vogue.com